P45 MPharm undergraduate knowledge, understanding and perceptions of covert administration of medicines in children

Introduction Covert medication administration is an ongoing practice that occurs among some patient groups, including geriatric, psychiatric and paediatric populations. The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005 the current legislation which relates to of covert applies people aged 16 over. 1 Gillick competence children under age 12 used determine whether child has capacity give consent their own medical treatment without parental intervention. 2 Medication non-adherence issues are common in children, circumstances resulted medicine covertly. poses ethical, legal clinical risks. These implications must be considered prior administration. research aim was gain a better understanding on knowledge perception MPharm students at Aston Pharmacy School children. Methods Purposive sampling used, where were selected complete online surveys voluntary anonymously. A total 50 participants have completed survey, 14% stage one, 28% two, 32% three 26% four study (2021–2022 academic year). results obtained include both qualitative quantitative data, imported into excel. Graphs charts illustrate findings. survey questions cover ethical perspectives This enabled students’ opinions attitudes towards this topic explored. approved by Protocol Ethics Research Board (PERB) pilot testing conducted before distributed students. Results Discussion Similarities between responses seen across different stages study. majority good MCA with regard capacity. Students appreciated importance role pharmacists Additionally, it clearly demonstrated principle best interests. Ethical most similar Depending circumstances, such as situation lacks mental capacity, believe administer In contrast unethical for used. Furthermore, when applying use appropriate act interests parents carers Conclusion gap identified, there need further explores References 2005, c. 9. Available at: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/9/section/1 [Accessed March 2022] National Society Prevention Cruelty Children (2018). competency Fraser guidelines [online]. https://www.icmec.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/gillick-competency-factsheet.pdf April